Cigarette Chemicals


This information has been reviewed and approved by Thomas Ylioja, MSW, PhD (May 2024).

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Summary: Chemicals in Cigarettes and Tobacco: What's Burning?

Over 4,000 chemical compounds are created when you light up.  Learn about the dangers of smoking:

Facts

  • 443,000 people die from smoking or secondhand smoke each year
  • Over 539 additives are used in the manufacturing of cigarettes

 

Additives in Cigarettes

  • Carbon Monoxide- released in car exhaust fumes
  • Lead- in batteries
  • Acetone- in nail polish remover
  • Arsenic- in rat poison
  • Acetic Acid- ingredient in hair dye
  • Ammonia- common household cleaner
  • Formaldehyde- also known as embalming fluid
  • Cadmium- in battery acid
  • Butane- in lighter fluid
  • Tar- material for paving roads

 

We Can Help You Quit Smoking

Call 1.800.QUIT NOW or read about the QuitLogix® program.

 


More Information on Quitting Cigarette Smoking


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